Leeds Arts University

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Description

Leeds Arts University (LAU) , the only specialist arts university in the North of England, has been a pioneer in arts education since its inception in 1846. Students enjoy a small, close-knit community in a creative atmosphere where anything feels possible. The city of Leeds is one of the UK’s most prosperous and fastest growing cities.  It is exceptionally student-friendly with a strong sports heritage, round-the-clock nightlife and cultural activities, and is highly popular with businesses in the creative industries.

Eligible Majors: Advertising and Digital Design

Program Type: Exchange 
“Exchange” lets you study abroad at a partner school while paying FIT tuition, with limited spots available.

Looking to Fund Your Study Abroad Experience?

FIT offers competitive scholarships - up to $10,000 - for students enrolled full-time while abroad. Awards are based on an essay, recommendations, GPA and financial need. Learn more about Paying for Study Abroad.

Review the LAU Program Financial Budget Sheet (Google Doc) and meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss your program costs. 

Eager to Study Abroad? Apply Now!

Submit your application through the Study Abroad Portal and then complete the required Course Equivalency Form with your Office of International Programs (OIP) program coordinator. After that, your department will review your completed course plan and application. See How to Apply step-by-step.

Apply Now

Program Details

If you have further questions about this program, contact the International Programs office at (212) 217-5380 or [email protected]

Fall Semester: Applications reviewed and approved on a rolling basis through February 15

Note: Early applicants receive preference.

  • Minimum GPA: 3.0
  • Enrollment: Must be matriculated in a Bachelor's degree program
  • Capacity: As an exchange program, it operates on a 1:1 ratio—meaning for every FIT student studying abroad, an international student studies at FIT. This limited capacity means spots can be competitive.

Additional Requirements by Major:

Advertising and Digital Design

  • Portfolio: Students must submit a portfolio of recent work to the department in the online application. 
  • Meet with an academic advisor and/or thoroughly review degree requirements in Degree Works
  • Meet with an OIP program coordinator
  • Obtain approval from the department chair or international coordinator
  • Students fulfill 7th and 8th semester major and related area courses by taking two modules worth 60 UK credits in Year 2 of the the BA (Hons) Marketing Communications program at LAU.
  • Students must also take AD 494 - Senior Thesis Project Planning (2 Credits) online at FIT while abroad.
  • Eligible to participate in the 7th semester

A full-time semester credit load at Leeds Arts University (LAU) consists of 60 UK credits. Major and related area credit is available. Liberal arts credit is not available, but students may take liberal arts and other courses online at FIT at no additional expense as this is an exchange program.

A detailed Academic Calendar can be viewed on the LAU website.

Students are generally expected to arrive the weekend before orientation begins.

Students are responsible for making their own accommodation arrangements for the duration of their stay. Students may apply to live in campus accommodations (not guaranteed) or search for a privately-rented home with support from LAU’s International Office.

LAU Housing

US citizens do not need to apply for a visa in advance of arrival. Upon entering the UK with proper documentation, US citizens are granted short-term study clearance by the border officer. All non-US citizens must carefully review UK visa requirements as they may need to apply in advance for a short-term study visa. Supporting documentation will be provided by CSM after admission.

UK Study Visa

FIT requires all students to be covered in the U.S. and internationally for the duration of their study abroad program. Students are automatically enrolled in the UHC Study Abroad Insurance, which is included in LAU program budget sheet (google doc). This policy is SUNY-mandated, therefore, it cannot be waived. 

The UHC Study Abroad Insurance is ACA compliant and students may waive the FIT Haylor Student Health Insurance using the Study Abroad policy.

The Student Welfare Team at LAU offers information, advice and guidance on a wide variety of subjects, including housing, counseling and welfare, disability support, sexual health and any other student related issue.